For the first time ever, the AA is urging its Members not to get behind the wheel this Easter.

“It may seem like a surprising message for the Automobile Association to be asking people not to drive unless you absolutely have to but it’s a sign of the unprecedented times we are currently in,” says AA Motoring Affairs General Manager Mike Noon.

“We’re adding our voice to the authorities and reminding everyone to not be tempted to travel or visit family or friends this weekend.

“Unless you are making an essential trip like for food or medical supplies you shouldn’t be on the roads.

“People with young children in particular will be wanting to still have some Easter fun, so try an easter egg hunt around the house, or doing some of the online activities that are out there. The key thing is keep it close to home.”

While the volume of traffic on the roads has dropped enormously during the lockdown there have still sadly been eight fatal crashes during the period.

“Just because the roads are quiet doesn’t mean all the risks are gone,” says Mike.

“People are still needing to make some essential driving trips and still need to keep safety in mind.”

If drivers do have to be out on the roads, the AA has three key bits of advice:

• Stay focussed on your driving. With few vehicles around it can be easy to have your mind drift to other things.
• Don’t let your speed creep up because the roads are empty.
• There may be people walking or cycling in unexpected places so share the road safely and take extra care around them

And if our Members suffer a breakdown on an essential trip, AA Roadservice is still available to come and help get you back on the road.

Take care, stay safe and be kind.

For more information contact:

Mike Noon
Motoring Affairs General Manager
New Zealand Automobile Association 
M. 021 659 704
E. mnoon@aa.co.nz